With hundreds of tractors in various sizes chugging their way across the Mackinac Bridge, Ed Reavie of Nostalgia Productions, Inc. says he is happy to be a part of this annual event.

“It’s a fun weekend,” said Reavie, encouraging folks to come out and see the parade and subsequent show. “It’s completely free, bring the kids, family, grandma and grandpa.”

Reavie, who brought the Car Show to St. Ignace and followed that up with the annual Richard Crane Memorial Truck Show admitted he knew very little about the tractor culture when he was first approached by the organization.

“They love their tractors,” said Reavie. “They are really just fanatic about it.”

In 2007, according to the organization’s promotional material, Owosso Tractor Parts received permission from the Mackinac Bridge Authority to hold a parade across the 5-mile span connecting Mackinaw City to St. Ignace. There were 614 tractors the first year and the organization continued to deliver as 921 participants and 36 tractor clubs were registered in 2012.

“I will not take credit for it,” said Reavie, identifying Bob Baumgras as the individual who spearheaded this unique event. “I just assist him.”

The event begins at approximately 9 a.m. Friday when the massive collection of tractors begin to depart from the staging area in Mackinaw City. Approximately 3 1/2 hours later, according to official estimates, the last tractor will make its way across the Mackinac Bridge into St. Ignace.

Reavie said the tractors will then go on display at Little Bear East and the nearby marina.

“Well within walking distance,” said Reavie, pointing out that despite the fact that there will be two locations it should be easily viewed by visitors on foot.

The Tractor Show will run all day on Saturday.

Food, souvenirs and other memorabilia will also be available with a variety of vendors anticipated for the event.

Reavie said the tractor parade and show provides a good boost to the local economy.

“These are people who wouldn’t be here if their tractors weren’t here,” he concluded.